Kaohsiung is stepping up efforts to attract Filipino tourists in 2025, aiming for more than 600,000 visitors. Last year, visa-free travel between Taiwan and the Philippines drew 470,000 visitors, showing strong growth.
To promote the city, Kaohsiung organized a lively event in downtown Manila. The event highlighted the city’s top attractions and introduced the “Kaohsiung Bear” mascot. Visitors were encouraged with the slogan “Tara Na! Kaohsiung,” which translates to “Come to Kaohsiung.” The slogan reinforces the city’s welcoming image for travelers from the Philippines.
Kaohsiung’s Tourism Bureau led a 60-member delegation to Manila. The team visited major Philippine tourism organizations to strengthen partnerships and boost awareness of travel opportunities. Officials emphasized direct charter flights and cruise services to make travel easier.
Taiwan’s envoy to the Philippines said the country ranks among the top five sources of inbound tourists to Taiwan. Filipino travelers contributed more than 310,000 visitors during the first half of this year alone. Authorities plan to deepen exchanges between Kaohsiung and the Philippines, including collaborations on tourism promotions.
Travel trends show steady growth in visitors since Taiwan introduced visa-free travel in 2017. Experts predict the number of arrivals could reach one million by 2027. Social media influencers often guide travel decisions, making Kaohsiung’s short flights and quality services particularly appealing.
Airline representatives reported high occupancy rates on Kaohsiung flights, averaging 83%. Most passengers travel independently, showing strong demand for more flights. This trend suggests that travelers increasingly prefer flexible and convenient options.
Tour operators also focus on themed packages. Popular offerings include cruises, cultural experiences, and extended stays. Some packages already provide eight-day, seven-night trips, including two nights in Kaohsiung. These packages showcase the city’s rich culture and recreational opportunities.
With visa-free travel, convenient flights, and targeted promotions, Kaohsiung expects tourism from the Philippines to rise steadily. The city’s active engagement and diverse travel options signal a bright future for visitors. Filipino tourists now play a key role in the city’s tourism growth, and authorities continue supporting this trend through innovative travel programs.
